Golf Manitoba is pleased to share the unique experience of Southwood Golf & Country Club member Rhonda Orr as she participates this week in the 2023 U.S. Senior Women’s Open at Waverley Country Club in Portland, Oregon.
My “work” day began on the practice range between Leta Lindley, the 2022 runner up, and golf legend Joanne Carner, winner of 43 LPGA events and 8 USGA titles. A few minutes on the putting green then off to the 10th tee for 9 holes where due to some late changes I played by myself.
The course is an older style course originally established in 1896 with a recent restoration by Gil Hanse. It is relatively easy course to walk with very short distances between greens and tee boxes. It is in fantastic shape with firm fast greens, as you would expect for a US Open. We are playing at 6104 yards, with the longest par 4 at 395 yards and the par 5s averaging 500 yards.
Massage, physio and chiropractic care are available in player recovery so I stopped in for treatment on a recent injury. On my way out I met Catriona Matthew, the 2019 and 2021 victorious Solheim Cup captain.
Managing your time and energy in these longer events is a priority so the remainder of the day was spent resting, stretching and studying the yardage book.
Looking forward to tomorrow’s 18 hole practice round and some more legend sightings!
Rhonda